After 42 years, the Cape May County Park & Zoo continues to bring adventure and excitement to both residents and visitors of Cape May County. Although there have been certain restrictions the past few months and the zoo was closed to the public, the Cape May County Zoo is now officially open and ready to welcome back visitors to see their favorite animals!
On May 6, 1978, the Cape May County Zoo opened on one acre within the Cape May County Park featuring about 70 animals. Today, 42 years later, the Cape May County Zoo consists of 52 acres boasting over 550 animals representing 250 species of exotic and native animals. Since the zoo’s beginning, thousands of visitors have been impressed – and often surprised – to see such an extensive collection of animals within such a beautifully maintained park.
Some of the exhibits and attractions that make the zoo one of the best are the African Savanna, the Big Cat Exhibit, New Jersey animals, the Walter Trettin Memorial Snow Leopard Habitat, and the Tree to Tree Adventure Park. Unfortunately, the World of Birds Aviary and the Reptile & Amphibian House remain closed at this time until further notice.
Over the past few months while the zoo was closed to the public, the Cape May County Zoo’s Education Department offered “Virtual Zoo School,” a video series where viewers met the zoo’s animals, educators, animal care staff, and got to see behind the scenes in order to stay connected to the community during this difficult time. The Zoo School got rave reviews and is still available online, but there is nothing like heading to the zoo for a fun day in the sun surrounded by animals, so start planning a visit!
Tree to Tree Adventure Park has also reopened at the Cape May County Zoo, which is an aerial adventure and zip line park. The Cape May County Zoo has been named one of the top 25 zoos in the world, according to TripAdvisor on multiple occasions, among many other awards and recognitions.
The zoo is now open every day from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Some of the safety measures being put in place now require every guest over the age of 2-years-old to wear a mask when visiting the zoo. This is for the protection of both the guests and animals, as some of the species are known to be susceptible to the virus. Guests are asked to maintain social distancing from other groups and families when visiting. A one-way directional flow throughout the zoo has been set up to reduce the number of interactions between guests where possible. The capacity of the zoo will be watched closely to ensure it doesn’t get overcrowded with guests.
The perfect alternative to a day at the beach, the zoo offers fun for every member of the family! The fun is always free at the zoo, but donations are appreciated. For the most up-to-date information, please visit cmczoo.com.